Protective hairstyles are crucial for maintaining healthy hair. These styles aid in minimizing damage, reducing breakage and fostering hair growth, while letting you express yourself uniquely.
If you’re willing to make the commitment to locs, one style that has gained significant popularity in recent years is patting locs. This trendy look combines aesthetics with practicality, making it a favorite among those seeking a unique protective style.
What Are Patting Locs?
Patting locs are a unique form of locs characterized by a distinct, uniform pattern that resembles a series of small, round “pats” or curls. Not only is this look cute, but it’s also functional, offering the benefits of a protective style while allowing for a range of styling options.
Patting locs can be worn in various lengths and can incorporate color or accessories, making them suitable for any kind of vibe. The locs are typically lightweight, providing comfort while adding flair to the overall look.
How to Do Patting Locs
Want to do your own patting locs? Follow these easy steps to achieve this trendy and protective look.
Materials Needed
- Hair Extensions (Optional): Choose extensions that match your natural hair color for added length or volume.
- Comb: A rat-tail comb for parting your hair neatly.
- Hair Clips: To secure sections while you work.
- Moisturizer or Leave-In Conditioner: Keeps your hair hydrated during the styling process.
- Hair Ties: Small elastics to secure the ends of your locs.
- Edge Control or Gel: For smoothing edges and achieving a polished finish.
- Scissors: To trim any excess hair or secure loose ends.
Patting Locs Tutorial
- Prep Your Hair: Start with clean, dry hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner or moisturizer to keep your hair hydrated and manageable.
- Section Your Hair: Use the rat-tail comb to create even sections, depending on how thick or thin you want your locs to be. Secure each section with clips.
- Create the Base: Take one section and divide it into smaller parts (about the size of a quarter). This will form the base of your loc.
- Twist and Wrap: Begin by twisting the hair tightly at the root to create a solid base. After twisting, wrap the hair around itself to form a small loc, continuing to twist and wrap until you reach the desired length.
- Secure the Ends: Once you reach the end of the section, secure the loc with a small hair tie to prevent unraveling.
- Repeat the Process: Follow the same method for each section of hair until all your locs are complete.
- Final Touches: After all locs are finished, apply edge control or gel to your edges for a neat appearance. You can also fluff the locs gently to achieve your desired volume.